Panama Defends Maritime Security at UN, Condemns Hormuz Attacks

From its esteemed position as the administrator of the vital Panama Canal, Panama has once again asserted its commitment to global maritime security on the international stage. At the UN Security Council, our nation's representative, Vice Foreign Minister Carlos A. Hoyos, underscored that the safety of sea lanes is not merely a national concern, but a shared global responsibility. This stance reflects Panama's deep understanding of the interconnectedness of international trade and the critical role our canal plays in facilitating it.

Panama's voice at the UN also served to condemn the recent aggressions in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial chokepoint for global energy and commerce. The article highlights the real-world impact of such disruptions, particularly on vulnerable economies – a perspective keenly felt in a nation whose very prosperity is tied to the unimpeded flow of goods. We are not just observers; we are stakeholders whose own security and economic well-being are directly affected by instability in these strategic waterways.

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maritime security must be considered a global public good

Furthermore, our delegation raised concerns about the increasing, and often arbitrary, inspections and detentions of Panamanian-flagged vessels. This practice breeds uncertainty and undermines the trust essential for global supply chains. Panama, as a responsible flag state, is dedicated to upholding the highest standards, and we expect international partners to respect the integrity of our registry and the safety of our mariners. Our commitment to the International Maritime Organization and its Panamanian Director-General, Arsenio Domínguez, is unwavering, as we collectively strive for a safer and more sustainable maritime future.

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The use of critical maritime routes as an instrument of pressure or coercion is unacceptable